[Official] Brewers @ Astros

[Castor27]

All series talk goes in here. DO NOT GIVE PLAY-BY-PLAY! If you need PBP try Yahoo, ESPN, or Sportsline.


4-17 Dave Bush, RHP (1-1, 5.54) vs. Taylor Buchholz, RHP (0-1, 3.38) 7:05 on KNWS

4-18 Doug Davis, LHP (0-0, 4.76) vs. Roy Oswalt, RHP (2-0, 1.99) 7:05 on FSSW

4-19 Chris Capuano, LHP (1-2, 3.93) vs. Andy Pettitte, LHP (1-2, 6.35) 7:05 on FSSW

[Groogrux]

WWW!!!

[MadMax]

sweep!!!

through 12 games, the Astros are averaging about 5.5 runs scored per game. if they can keep their pitchers healthy, they will win a lot of games this year playing that way.

[mateo]

This should be a great series.
I watched the Brewers and Mets go at it this weekend and the Brew Crew are an amusing young club. Sorta pissed that Jenkins woke up this weekend, he goes hot and cold.

[ima_drummer2k]

Looking forward to watching Taylor Buchholz tonight. I can't wait to see what this kid has after getting a little taste during his last appearance.

If he can develop into a decent starter this year, that is going to really help us, considering the news about Backe.

[rrj_gamz]

LWW...This should be a good series...The Brewers can hit...

[oomp]

WWW - Tonight I get to make my first trip to the Juice Box this season, can't wait!

[RocketManJosh]

LWW...This should be a good series...The Brewers can hit...

Not having watched the Brewers this year this was the impression I got from a friend that is a Brewers fan and hearing how well they were doing. However when I check ESPN.com standings today, I see that the Brew Crew has only scored 48 runs this season and only 4 teams in the entire Major League have scored less runs than them.

Oh yeah ... WWW!

[kaleidosky]

for the first time this year, i'm actually feeling a WWW... YES!

[halfbreed]

Break out the brooms...

[wrath_of_khan]

A sweep would be great here!

1. We put the Brewers back in their place (or at least several games behind us).

2. And then we have huge Mo going into the series against the cellar-dwelling Pirates.

I see us reeling off a winning streak right about now!

W
W
W

[Kerfeld]

Sweep em up... lets get started!

[arkoe]

We've never faced Bush before, which means... we're going to wreck. :D

[RocketFan007]

Another game that isn't televised in Austin...sweet.

[halfbreed]

Another game that isn't televised in Austin...sweet.

I'm holding out hope that it will be but isn't listed... :(

[texanskan]

W

W

W

= 11-4 SWEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Saint Louis]

We've never faced Bush before, which means... we're going to wreck. :D

I'm hoping that our new and improved Astros from last year have finally learned how to end that old Astros trend.

[lexled]

http://www.industriesoftheblind.com/21005.jpg

[halfbreed]

Another game that isn't televised in Austin...sweet.

Turn on channel 23 for a surprise... :D

[RocketFan007]

I'm holding out hope that it will be but isn't listed... :(

You're right, it's on 23 now.

[codell]

Man ..looks like Bucky had a whole pot of full caff java before he took the mound

[DarkHorse]

Is there an Astros chat somewhere?

[kaleidosky]

you wouldn't believe how complementary the other announcers are about Everett (now a 2nd set of announcers). And they say it comes from the mouths of the Astros

something like "when you ask them who does all the little things, who's the best overall player, who knows the ins and outs of everything and is always on top of every situation..everyone on the team says Adam Everett"

edit: and that was before AE came through with the big hit

[Saint Louis]

Cool, run support from the bottom of the Astros lineup.

[bobrek]

you wouldn't believe how complementary the other announcers are about Everett (now a 2nd set of announcers). And they say it comes from the mouths of the Astros

something like "when you ask them who does all the little things, who's the best overall player, who knows the ins and outs of everything and is always on top of every situation..everyone on the team says Adam Everett"

edit: and that was before AE came through with the big hit

Anyone who does not realize the value that Adam Everett provides to the Astros game in and game out, does not follow the Astros close enough. He makes difficult playes look so easy at times, that the play seems routine. Fans that follow the team in depth realize how important Everett is to the team.

[Jugdish]

Did I just see Ensberg bunting with a man on second???

Did I just see Berkman try to steal third with Preston at bat???

:mad: :mad: :mad:

[halfbreed]

I second the notion for an Astros chat

[arkoe]

Did I just see Ensberg bunting with a man on second???

Did I just see Berkman try to steal third with Preston at bat???

:mad: :mad: :mad:

Did I just see Preston strike out for the second time?

Did I just see Preston go -2 for me for the night?

:mad: :mad: :mad:

[RocketFan007]

Did I just see Preston strike out for the second time?

Did I just see Preston go -2 for me for the night?

:mad: :mad: :mad:

Don't get to upset, that will happen alot this season.

[DarkHorse]

Anyone who wants to chat head over to #astros on irc.webmaster.com

[JunkyardDwg]

I like how Buccholz is keeping his composure. He ran into a little trouble there in the top of the 4th and lost command of his pitches for a sec but then settled back down and got consecutive outs.

[RocketFan007]

That curve ball is filthy.

[texanskan]

OK Ensberg make up for your **** up!

[RocketManJosh]

Sheesh! The Brewers have 3 runs on 2 hits. Definitely need to come back here. Time for Morgan to atone for his error!

[RocketFan007]

OK Ensberg make up for your **** up!

That good enough for you?

[mateo]

And there we go.... new game.

[RocketManJosh]

Way to make it up Morgan!!!!

[arkoe]

Don't get to upset, that will happen alot this season.

Oh, bringer of bad news. :(

[RocketFan007]

Everett is swinging the bat well early on.

[The Real Shady]

You stink Qualls.

[RocketManJosh]

3 hits, 6 runs ... That is just awful

[Uprising]

WOndery why COX isn't picking this one up. :(

[Kerfeld]

freakin qualls

[Uprising]

Wow, there's goes the tie! :eek: :mad:

[Miguel]

Balls to the Qualls action, part deux

[arkoe]

Yer doin' a heck of a job, Quallsey.

[arkoe]

3 hits, 6 runs ... That is just awful

Every hit has been a dinger.

[Saint Louis]

3 hits, 6 runs ... That is just awful

That is pretty pathetic. Two of the hits are homeruns. The Astros bullpen hasn't look too sharp at times this year.

[Saint Louis]

That is pretty pathetic. Two of the hits are homeruns. The Astros bullpen hasn't look too sharp at times this year.


No kidding, I have only caught two of them. I guess I need to look at the box score more closely.

[Uprising]

I wonder what Qualls ERA is going to be after tonight. Man he blows....

Saint Louis, what's up with agreeing with yourself and quoting yourself? :confused: :p


Wow, there's goes the tie! :eek: :mad:

No kidding! Man this sucks. :D :D

[Saint Louis]

I wonder what Qualls ERA is going to be after tonight. Man he blows....

Saint Louis, what's up with agreeing with yourself and quoting yourself? :confused: :p

It is currently 6.75 and climbing.

[Saint Louis]

I wonder what Qualls ERA is going to be after tonight. Man he blows....

Saint Louis, what's up with agreeing with yourself and quoting yourself? :confused: :p

It's been a long Monday.

[Uprising]

It's been a long Monday.

Tell me about it, I just got home. Had a 14hr shift today at the FD.

[Kerfeld]

Lets hope Zeke does not give up one his trademark three run dongs

[Nice Rollin]

THIS GAME JUST GOT UGLY! ZEKE IS COMING IN!

[texanskan]

Come on beautifull keep it three runs!

Yes, let gets some runs!

[RocketManJosh]

OK Top of the lineup ... Lets get 4!

[Kerfeld]

taveras gets on... Berkman ties it... my prediction.

[RocketManJosh]

Finally an error and its not on the Stros!

[RocketManJosh]

Rally time!!! Lets GO MO!

[texanskan]

BIG PUMA!!!!!!!!!

[Uprising]

Nice comeback here.

GO STROS!!!!

Ugh, another Wilson K. Definetly not his day.


LOOKS LIKE HIS DAY OFF HAS COOLED HIM OFF> :o

[RocketFan007]

Golden sombrero...

[mateo]

Ugh Wilson. Come on Lane.

[RocketManJosh]

Geeze Wilson, you at least gotta get the runners over. Time for a pick-me-up

[Nice Rollin]

BIG PUMA!!!!!!!!!
i hate that!

[RocketFan007]

THREE RUN BOMB BY LANE!!!

[The Real Shady]

**** Yeah. Big Boy Lane!

[RocketManJosh]

HELLL YEAH BABY!!!! I love this team!!!!

[mateo]

I'm supposed to be reviewing a contract for work, I have redlined about 12 pages outta 50 during this game....I'm so screwed.

GO STROS!!!!!

(popping second Coke Zero of the evening)

[Nice Rollin]

game time

[Nice Rollin]

i hope zeke doesnt trot back out there to give the runs back...

[Uprising]

this is why I love baseball.

Wish this game was on tv for me.

[mateo]

this is why I love baseball.

Wish this game was on tv for me.

MLB Extra Innings....worth every penny not spent at a sportsbar.

[Uprising]

COme on Astros! DON"T BLOW THIS ONE!!!

[Uprising]

It's up to "Lights Out" Lidge.

[texanskan]

It's up to "Lights Out" Lidge.

You mean "shakey lidge"

[Kerfeld]

Come on Stros!!!

[Nick]

A pretty odd bottom of the 8th... I'd expect a bunt with two men on, nobody out (an almost automatic bunt situation... esp. with Willy T), but he swung away into a ground-out.

At least it allowed Berkman to see some pitches (he would have probably been walked after the bunt), but he flies out... and with the way Morgan is hitting, I wouldn't have minded seeing him hit with the bases loaded and 1 out.

As it is, now its up to Preston (as they walked Morgan)... and there it is... 0-5... 5 K'S!

[raw10628]

Swing the freaking bat....How are FIVE strikeouts possible. :mad:

[RocketFan007]

We are now seeing the real Preston Wilson. He'll hit some home runs, but he's going to strike out a ton, and won't hit for much of an average.

[Uprising]

What happened?

It says INTENT BALL to Morgan, and hasn't refreshed.

[rocketfat]

jesus....5 K's in one night. dont see that too often! brown just said it's a club record as i'm typing this.

[The Real Shady]

Woohoo! Preston Wilson sets a new Astros record with 5 strikeouts.

3 K's is the Hat Trick
4 K's is the Golden Sombrero
5 K's is the Platinum Sombrero

[Uprising]

Having the night off in the last game doesn't look like it was such a good idea now. (preston's night off)

He seems to have lost his fire.

[Nick]

Having the night off in the last game doesn't look like it was such a good idea now. (preston's night off)

He seems to have lost his fire.

He's a streaky guy... but nobody should look that bad after a night off.

Biggio got a night off... and he looks great tonight.

[SwoLy-D]

Woohoo! Preston Wilson sets a new Astros record with 5 strikeouts.

3 K's is the Hat Trick
4 K's is the Golden Sombrero
5 K's is the Platinum SombreroWhere are you, Another Brother??? :D Drayton got watcha wanted...

[bigballerj]

Woo Hoo! Astros win again!!!! :D :D :D

[Uprising]

WE ROCK!!! Unlike the ROckets, who suck.


GO STROS!!!! :D :D

[Kerfeld]

what a game... cant wait for tommorrow. What a difference a year makes with this offense.

[Nick]

While its good to see the offense explode again... I really HATE games like this.

I'd take a 2-1 offensive "struggle" win any day over this crap. At least we don't have to see Qualls doing this as a CLOSER... which is what the general opinion was of this forum (if we had done the Tejada trade).

In the end, they need better pitching in that 7th inning (which has already burned them once this year)... if Qualls isn't going to do it any time soon, Springer will get his shot.

Our bullpen is going to be more important than ever... esp. with the Buccholz/Nieve/Rodriguez crew. Last year, Qualls got most of the days off in that 7th inning... he better get his head right sooner rather than later.

And, btw... Lidge's fastball looked filthy tonight.

[kaleidosky]

While its good to see the offense explode again... I really HATE games like this.

I'd take a 2-1 offensive "struggle" win any day over this crap. At least we don't have to see Qualls doing this as a CLOSER... which is what the general opinion was of this forum (if we had done the Tejada trade).

In the end, they need better pitching in that 7th inning (which has already burned them once this year)... if Qualls isn't going to do it any time soon, Springer will get his shot.

Our bullpen is going to be more important than ever... esp. with the Buccholz/Nieve/Rodriguez crew. Last year, Qualls got most of the days off in that 7th inning... he better get his head right sooner rather than later.

And, btw... Lidge's fastball looked filthy tonight.

Agreed...glad we still have Lidge. Qualls and Wheeler both haven't had it all the time this year. I really think Qualls will find his stuff soon enough..but I'm biased for some reason. You're right, we'll need him more than ever this year. (speaking of which, Andy better find his stuff too)

And yeah, Lidge's fastball was sick. Out of the 6 fb's to Clark, 1 was fouled...the other 5, I think 4 were strikes in the exact same spot and 1 was a little outside. It just so happened that only 1 of em was called a strike..2 called balls. (And the last he swung through)

[Kam]

Lidge looked good tonight. I'd like to see more of that.

[kaleidosky]

what a game... cant wait for tommorrow. What a difference a year makes with this offense.

yeah, and where are all the ones who wanted to kill purpura for wanting to keep this team mostly intact, saying that they can produce? where are the ones who were ready to villify mclane and purpura for not adding a bat?

oh right, when things are going well, they keep quiet.

[SamCassell]

Considered changing your signature yet, kaleidosky? ;)

The Astros DID need to add a bat this offseason, and they added what looks to be a productive one in Wilson. Preston's platinum sombrero notwithstanding, I really like our 3 - 6 lineup right now. Berkman looks like a MVP candidate, and the others have been very productive so far. And the pitching has been topnotch, even with Qualls being so absolutely terrible so far.

[geeimsobored]

I think most of us are forgetting that Qualls was pretty bad at the beginning of last year as well.

He'll figure it out and get it together.

[Nick]

yeah, and where are all the ones who wanted to kill purpura for wanting to keep this team mostly intact, saying that they can produce? where are the ones who were ready to villify mclane and purpura for not adding a bat?

oh right, when things are going well, they keep quiet.

To be fair, this team still has a problem against quality pitching... which they haven't faced much of this year (and to be fair to that comment, most teams struggle against quality pitching).

Dontrelle and Webb have been the best starters the Astros have faced this year... and they couldn't do squat agains them. Morris and Mitre are above average, and we had our problems there too. We did rough up Livan (who is quality)... but ironically, we lost that game.

In the end, however, it is better than last year... and I already said that at the least, they'll be in the middle of the pack offensively. If the trends continue (ie - Berkman and Ensberg continue to be MVP-types, and Lane comes around like he should), they'll be a top-5 club.

[Jugdish]

We are now seeing the real Preston Wilson. He'll hit some home runs, but he's going to strike out a ton, and won't hit for much of an average.

Batting average is a useless stat. If his OPS is over .850, this will be a good season for the Astros.

[ROXRAN]

Dare I say, the Astros are SLIGHTLY above average power team right now!...

Willy is playing the field like he actually believes that strange article of him being the best defensive outfielder is true...getting good hits, Biggio looks good enough, Berkman, Ensberg. etc. ...solid

I really didn't think our offense would be the way it is so far...a good thing.
:)

[DaDakota]

They key to the Astros offense resides in the number 3 and 4 hole.

A healthy hammering Berkman, and a confident Ensberg make all the difference.

Now, if we can just make it to Roger Clemens month....

:)

DD

[RocketFan007]

Batting average is a useless stat. If his OPS is over .850, this will be a good season for the Astros.

And he's only done that twice in his career, once in Coor's Field and in his rookie season.

[Jugdish]

And he's only done that twice in his career, once in Coor's Field and in his rookie season.

Yeah, it was shameful, but he's slugging at .568 so far. Though it's still early in the season.

I'm sure Adam Dunn's had a few golden fezzes (or whatever you call 5 Ks), but he's a beast everyone should want.

[SWTsig]

yeah, and where are all the ones who wanted to kill purpura for wanting to keep this team mostly intact, saying that they can produce? where are the ones who were ready to villify mclane and purpura for not adding a bat?

oh right, when things are going well, they keep quiet.

i'm right here.

and i still think we should add another bat.

[RocketFan007]

I'm sure Adam Dunn's had a few golden fezzes (or whatever you call 5 Ks), but he's a beast everyone should want.

Wilson is nowhere near Dunn's league. Only one season with a OPS below .850, and back to back years of 40 homers, 100 RBI and an OPS over .900.

[The Real Shady]

I'm sure Adam Dunn's had a few golden fezzes (or whatever you call 5 Ks), but he's a beast everyone should want.

That's a Platinum Sombrero. A very rare feet indeed.

[geeimsobored]

Yeah, it was shameful, but he's slugging at .568 so far. Though it's still early in the season.

I'm sure Adam Dunn's had a few golden fezzes (or whatever you call 5 Ks), but he's a beast everyone should want.

But Dunn hits more homers and walks a ton more. Even with his strikeouts, he still routinely will get an OBP in the 380s to 400s.

Wilson on the other hand struggles to get an OBP of 330. Although their power numbers are pretty close (minus the home runs)

I still think the Wilson signing was a good move but don't compare him to Adam Dunn

[Saint Louis]

Holy crap! The Astros came back and won! I stopped at my computer after getting home from work to notice Qualls just gave up a three run dinger. Finally the kids are in bed and the kitchen clean and I come upstairs to look and see that the Astros have won. Very unexpected. Man this team has become resilent.

Nice to see Lane is starting to hit. Berkman and Ensberg are just plane hot right now.

It's too early to start worrying about another bat. If Backe is hurt bad and Clemens doesn't come back, they may need another arm more then another bat.

[DaDakota]

Hey, if he strikes out 5 times every game, and we win, I am ok with that.

DD

[kaleidosky]

Considered changing your signature yet, kaleidosky? ;)

The Astros DID need to add a bat this offseason, and they added what looks to be a productive one in Wilson. Preston's platinum sombrero notwithstanding, I really like our 3 - 6 lineup right now. Berkman looks like a MVP candidate, and the others have been very productive so far. And the pitching has been topnotch, even with Qualls being so absolutely terrible so far.

hehe, i'll keep it. the guy has been clutch way too many times (and had a solid season last year) for me to give up on him now in any way.

I guess my point was that it seems like there was still a huge sentiment of "Wilson isn't that bat" and "he K's too much" (yeah, I know) and "we need something more than that" .. I mean I think everyone was hoping to either have Luke Scott make a big leap (which he didn't) or acquire a bat assuming Bags was out.

But I see there is still someone (SWT) who thinks we need a bat. Guess you think we should replace one (any) of the 3 OF's?

By teh way, maybe gone unnoticed or underrated...I really like our bench right now. Palmeiro/Lamb from the left side, Burke/Bruntlett from the right. The latter 2 are utility guys all over the field. Plus Munson behind hte plate showin a little stick so far.

[Jugdish]

Wilson is nowhere near Dunn's league. Only one season with a OPS below .850, and back to back years of 40 homers, 100 RBI and an OPS over .900.

I'm not saying he's as good as Dunn, I'm just saying strikeouts don't mean much. The least strikeouts Dunn has had when playing 158+ games is 168.

Preston had a bad day
Preston's taking one down
Preston sings a sad song just to turn it around

I watch too much American Idol.

[RocketFan007]

I'm not saying he's as good as Dunn, I'm just saying strikeouts don't mean much. The least strikeouts Dunn has had when playing 158+ games is 168.

But strikeouts do mean a lot when you don't walk or hit for great power.

I don't mean to jump all over Preston for tonight's game, I'm just pointing out what he's done over the course of his career.

[Jugdish]

But Dunn hits more homers and walks a ton more. Even with his strikeouts, he still routinely will get an OBP in the 380s to 400s.

Wilson on the other hand struggles to get an OBP of 330. Although their power numbers are pretty close (minus the home runs)

I still think the Wilson signing was a good move but don't compare him to Adam Dunn

I'm not comparing them, I was just drudging up the most extreme case of OPS vs. Ks.

I'll take a career 90 K and .812 OPS per year guy, though.

[RocketFan007]

I'll take a career 90 K and .812 OPS per year guy, though.

I'm done with this discussion, but Wilson has averaged 146 Ks in his 6 full seasons.

[DaDakota]

PSSST

We won !

[Shaji]

some thoughts:

we knew what we were getting when we signed preston...25-35 bombs, 75-90 rbis, and 100+ ks, this game notwithstanding i think preston was a great pickup to put in the 5 hole...

willy looks like hes learned to pull the ball a bit more, which i thought he needed to do more of, instead of trying to squirt the ball the other way (of course when hes not dropping down bunts and trying to beat out IF singles, but lets not get started on that). and everett looks like hes learning to go up the middle/opposite field more, and the results are obvious

as for qualls, his stuff has looked damn good but hes been missing his spots...last year was the same, although his stuff wasnt as refined as it is now...based on these past two years he seems like hes just a slow starter, and its gonna take him a while to get geared up and hitting his spots...when hes on, his sinker chews up both lefties and righties and his slider is nothing to laugh at either...i say we just give him some time before we start puttin a 36-37 yr old springer out there to set up wheeler/lidge....

i had about 15 heart attacks tonight, but thats ok...lidge locked em down, his fastball was ELECTRIC tonight, he seems like hes listening to the advice of his coaches: throwing more fastballs...what id like to see him do is take a little off his fastball and throw is his two seamer more to get some more easy ground ball outs

that being said, great win...were on the way to a sweep, but iirc davis always gives us some trouble...thank god we got the wizard goin tomorrow night

[The Real Shady]

You know what's going to be weird? When the Astros are playing the Yankees in the World Series, but Clemens is going to be pitching for the Yankees. Just imagine the reception Clemens will get for that game.

[Shaji]

You know what's going to be weird? When the Astros are playing the Yankees in the World Series, but Clemens is going to be pitching for the Yankees. Just imagine the reception Clemens will get for that game.

i really think that if clemens was gonna sign with someone else, he wouldve done it by now...nobodys willing to give him the kind of deal the astros are, where he can skip road trips...that being said, clemens also knows the astros need him now that backes down. i fully expect him to hold drayton hostage for big bucks, and i fully expect drayton to pony up said big bucks

[The Real Shady]

i really think that if clemens was gonna sign with someone else, he wouldve done it by now...nobodys willing to give him the kind of deal the astros are, where he can skip road trips...that being said, clemens also knows the astros need him now that backes down. i fully expect him to hold drayton hostage for big bucks, and i fully expect drayton to pony up said big bucks

Granato on 610 said that the Rangers and Yankees have already put up $20 million for Clemens is a shortend season. I would be surprised to see McClain match that. Especailly since we could have had him for a full season at that price.

[dividend]

great game.. definately more interesting than the rockets game tonight...

I thought Wilson would redeem himself in his 5th at-bat with the bases loaded, but...... oh well, maybe next time! I could care less that THAT makes Sports Center highlights as long as we're winning.....

[SamCassell]

Clemens isn't going to the Rangers. They suck every year, they're off to a lousy start again this season, and really he'd be nothing but a sideshow act pitching for a losing team over there. The Yankees might still be in the running, but the Rangers are a joke.

[kaleidosky]

great game.. definately more interesting than the rockets game tonight...

I thought Wilson would redeem himself in his 5th at-bat with the bases loaded, but...... oh well, maybe next time! I could care less that THAT makes Sports Center highlights as long as we're winning.....

didn't see SC. was it all the 5K's and nothin much else? Or at least, not concentrated on the good game?

[Groogrux]

PSSST

We won !

I love it. Exciting come from behind victory and most of the discussion is about the guy who struck out 5 times. Color me not surprised.

[oomp]

What a great game. Come from behind, club seats and too much beer. I'm paying for it this morning, but it was worth the price. Way to go Stros!

[SwoLy-D]

Hey, if he strikes out 5 times every game, and we win, I am ok with that.

DDDid you see the "4 career grand slams" stat before his 5th at-bat? :rolleyes:

I'd rather bet insured 12-7 instead of only 8-7 and my hear in my throat. :cool: Heck, I can strike out 5 times... pay me $7 million!

[MadMax]

wow! what a great game. i'm going tonight!!!

[gunn]

wow! what a great game. i'm going tonight!!!


It's always nice going to a game when Roy O is on the bump. Hopefully he can get us another shutout. I think Roy is going to have his best season of his career this year.

[macalu]

i really think that if clemens was gonna sign with someone else, he wouldve done it by now...nobodys willing to give him the kind of deal the astros are, where he can skip road trips...that being said, clemens also knows the astros need him now that backes down. i fully expect him to hold drayton hostage for big bucks, and i fully expect drayton to pony up said big bucks

if the astros give clemens $20 million, i will be pissed if he's still asking to skip road trips. screw that crap. that's full time money.

[gunn]

if the astros give clemens $20 million, i will be pissed if he's still asking to skip road trips. screw that crap. that's full time money.

It's really not that big a deal. It's not like he doesn't go on the road trip when he is scheduled to pitch. And if he runs out a "1.something" ERA does it really matter?

[macalu]

It's really not that big a deal. It's not like he doesn't go on the road trip when he is scheduled to pitch. And if he runs out a "1.something" ERA does it really matter?

oh, i thought he skipped the road trip regardless of whether or not he was in the rotation.

[Jugdish]

oh, i thought he skipped the road trip regardless of whether or not he was in the rotation.

I think his road ERA was under 1.00 last year. It was hovering around 0.33 for the first couple of months of the season.

[Groogrux]

Woohoo. Picked up tickets for my first home Astros game of the season!!! Most productive lunch hour ever. Picked up tickets from the Juice Box, grabbed a t-shirt from a Power Dancer at Toyota Center, picked up my flask for the game tonight and grabbed lunch to-go from BW3. Now if the next two hours and 41 minutes could just fly by, it'd be a perfect day. :)

[Saint Louis]

Woohoo. Picked up tickets for my first home Astros game of the season!!! Most productive lunch hour ever. Picked up tickets from the Juice Box, grabbed a t-shirt from a Power Dancer at Toyota Center, picked up my flask for the game tonight and grabbed lunch to-go from BW3. Now if the next two hours and 41 minutes could just fly by, it'd be a perfect day. :)

You must have spent all morning working on that lunch plan. Now if the Power Dancer would have just been a horny 22 year old teacher's assistant from North Caronlina, then it truly would have been the perfect lunch hour.

[Groogrux]

You must have spent all morning working on that lunch plan. Now if the Power Dancer would have just been a horny 22 year old teacher's assistant from North Caronlina, then it truly would have been the perfect lunch hour.

The funny thing is that the Astros tickets were our only mission. That went by quicker than we thought, so we thought we'd call in an order to BW3. While putting in the order, we saw them handing out shirts so we stopped. The order took 15 minutes...perfect amount of time to hit Specs. Now if only I was on a patio instead of in a cubicle. With the 22 year-old teachers assistant. :D

[rrj_gamz]

What a win...Keep it up...

[white lightning]

I just tuned in to the radio pregame show for the first time in awhile. I can't believe that milo introduces himself as "hall of fame broadcaster milo hamilton".

[DaDakota]

Ensberg cost us 2 more runs today.

DD

[RocketManJosh]

What is up with Morgan's D this season?

[Nick]

At least Morgan didn't do that in game 4 of the NLCS... frankly, that play against St. Louis was 10x tougher, and he completed it with ease.

Time for the bats to go to work...

[adw]

Hopefully Mo can get Roy back those runs with his bat.

[adw]

B-G-O! :eek:

[Nick]

Attaboy Mo!

[RocketManJosh]

Mo loves making up for mistakes!!!

[JaWindex]

Hopefully Mo can get Roy back those runs with his bat.
:D :D :D :D

[adw]

Moberg! :D

[RocketManJosh]

Preston ... wow ... just wow

[DaDakota]

Mo with an apology...for the 2nd night in a row....

Wow.....I think he has found his confidence, him and Berkman are montorous.

If Preston keeps striking out can we see Burke?

DD

[Nick]

.If Preston keeps striking out can we see Burke?


Not if we keep winning despite it... maybe it keeps all the other hitters (esp. Lane) more focused.

[adw]

I say Wilson trys to bunt next time up,cant be any worse :p

[rocketfat]

Mo with an apology...for the 2nd night in a row....

Wow.....I think he has found his confidence, him and Berkman are montorous.

If Preston keeps striking out can we see Burke?

DD



an apology i guess....i know he made a bad throw, but what the hell is ausmus good for? i'll answer that...absolutely nothing. that was a scoop that could have been made.

[DaDakota]

Why are both runs earned against Oswalt? Technically if Morgan throws correctly, they are out of the inning without giving up a single run.

So at the most one run should be earned not 2.

DD

[Nick]

an apology i guess....i know he made a bad throw, but what the hell is ausmus good for? i'll answer that...absolutely nothing. that was a scoop that could have been made.

Please... he had to catch the ball on a bad hop (which hits the plate), as well as make a tag at the same time. Its still a play that he likely makes more times than not, but nothing was routine about it... perhaps we're spoiled by having such a fundamentally sound defensive catcher.

Hell... even at the bat, Ausmus is still effective... he has the 3rd best OBP on the club.

And, with so many young pitchers... I don't want anybody else calling their games. Just ask Roy how much better he's become (again) since Brad started catching him (vs. those years with Chamo).

Finally, Game 4 NLDS... nothing more needs to be said to defend Astro-legend, Brad Ausmus.

[Nick]

Why are both runs earned against Oswalt? Technically if Morgan throws correctly, they are out of the inning without giving up a single run.

So at the most one run should be earned not 2.

DD

You can't assume a play like that to be made successfully (just like you can't assume the DP, even though most of the time its obvious it would have been made)... its a fielder's choice.

Thus, assuming Morgan gets the "routine" out at first on tha play (allowing the first earned run to score), Hall moves to third, and the second run comes home (as it did) on Lee's groundout.

Is Roy on your fantasy team?

[DaDakota]

You can't assume a play like that to be made successfully (just like you can't assume the DP, even though most of the time its obvious it would have been made)... its a fielder's choice.

Thus, assuming Morgan gets the "routine" out at first on tha play (allowing the first earned run to score), Hall moves to third, and the second run comes home (as it did) on Lee's groundout.

Is Roy on your fantasy team?

No, no....just know that it is the official scorers call and wonder why he gave him 2 earned, when clearly the first one scored because of an error.

DD

[LongTimeFan]

Uh.. where did the Astros team go that couldn't score to save their life? These guys get hit and hit back harder!

[DaDakota]

Uh.. where did the Astros team go that couldn't score to save their life? These guys get hit and hit back harder!


Healthy Berkman, and a year of confidence coming off the world series. Morgan, Willy, etc.....all know they belong instead of hoping they do.

DD

[Nick]

No, no....just know that it is the official scorers call and wonder why he gave him 2 earned, when clearly the first one scored because of an error.

DD

You can't award unearned runs for plays that get screwed up that weren't "routine" with less than 2 outs... ie, a double play, or fielder's choice throws (if they're errant) can be witheld from the "unearned run" philosophy.

If there were 2 outs, and Morgan decides to come home, its unearned.

[RocketManJosh]

Good job Adam! Big RBI there with Roy on deck!

[RocketManJosh]

B-G-O!!!!!

[Nick]

Go WILLY!

(but never make the third out at third... esp. with the second coming of Maris and Mantle coming to the plate).

[NIKEstrad]

Go WILLY!

(but never make the third out at third... esp. with the second coming of Maris and Mantle coming to the plate).

Agreed. Don't know what Mansolino was thinking on that one (assuming he gave the signal).

PS - DD, Worrell just said the 2 runs are unearned for Roy.

If Qualls, Wheeler, and Lidge can get back to 2005 performance, I really, really like this team.

[DaDakota]

PS - DD, Worrell just said the 2 runs are unearned for Roy.


Really? Cool, but the Espn box score has them as earned, it is completely at the descretion of the official scorer. I used to be one in college and I would have given him one earned....

DD

[Willy92683]

Really? Cool, but the Espn box score has them as earned, it is completely at the descretion of the official scorer. I used to be one in college and I would have given him one earned....

DD

MLB Gameday just changed the scoring to unearned runs. :)

Good 1-2-3 inning for Roy

[DaDakota]

7 in a row for Preston

[arkoe]

7 straight strikeouts for Wilson.

[RocketManJosh]

Unbelievable ... I've never seen someone strike out so much. The guy has really got to be pressing now, and that certainly isn't going to help.

[arkoe]

Really? Cool, but the Espn box score has them as earned, it is completely at the descretion of the official scorer. I used to be one in college and I would have given him one earned....

DD

Yahoo shows them as unearned.

[rocketfat]

anybody know the record?

[DaDakota]

Did you guys hear that, if the Astros win tonight they will be at .500 for the entire history of the Franchise...wow.

DD

[DaDakota]

7 straight strikeouts for Wilson.

2 more and he ties the major league record...I kind of hope he breaks it....does that make me evil?

:D

[NIKEstrad]

AE!!

If there is any sort of causal relationship between Preston Wilson striking out and the rest of the team going bonkers offensively...I'm for it!

Edit: Roy O!.... Just wow.

[RocketManJosh]

Day-um Adam!!!!! He is a HUGE difference between our offense last season and this season. When you get that kind of production out of your 8 hitter, you are definitely going to win some ball-games.

[mokulen]

Even Roy-O drivin in runs!

[Buck Turgidson]

anybody know the record?
9 - Eric Davis

[arkoe]

The Astros have 9 runs in the first three innings. I can't remember this ever happening before.

[RocketManJosh]

Can't believe Davis lasted this long

[Nick]

Can't believe Davis lasted this long

Its gotta be in his head now... he was 0-6 at MMP heading into this game.

He's a much better pitcher than that... but this team (and ballpark) will do that to you... that's called home-field advantage.

[RocketManJosh]

2 in the 1st
3 in the 2nd
4 in the 3rd

5 in the 4th?

[Surfguy]

Roger Clemens won't be able to hold out much longer if our offense keeps this up.

[Harrisment]

Did anyone just see President Bush scratch his nuts? Classic. :D

[ROXRAN]

Did anyone just see President Bush scratch his nuts? Classic. :D

It's all due to the wizard being incredulous and getting the bat going!... Strange :)

[Surfguy]

Preston going for his 8th straight strikeout. Go Preston! :D

Edit: Ah...jinxed him. He lined out to third to break the streak.

[DaDakota]

Did anyone just see President Bush scratch his nuts? Classic. :D

At least the father has a pair.

:)

[DaDakota]

Well he hit it hard at least... !

Everet batting .304 for the season.....maybe he has a Morgan breakout season?

DD

[RocketManJosh]

Way to go Preston!

[thewaterox]

At least the father has a pair.

:)

There has been plenty of ball scratching in the oval office and other things as well while Clinton was in office. :D

[Uprising]

WOW! MO IS ON FIRE!!!!!!

2 Dingers tonight.

10-2 Good Guys!!! :eek: :eek: :D

[RocketManJosh]

Mo had to give Lance some competition in the HR department!!

[ROXRAN]

Jesuwhaaaaa! I can't believe it, but it's all good!

[Uprising]

WILSON GETS A HIT!!! :eek: :eek: :eek: :D

WHOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

This team ROCKS!!!

God I missed Baseball!!!!

So glad it's back!!!

GO STROS!!!!!!

[DaDakota]

I love Lane's patience, his average will come around, he could hit .300 with this type of patience.

DD

[DaDakota]

There has been plenty of ball scratching in the oval office and other things as well while Clinton was in office. :D

I would take the humming in the Clinton office over the scratching in the current office.....

:)

DD

[adw]

Screw Bo.....Mo knows baseball!

[Nick]

Bad news for Oswalt fantasy owners (like myself).

Garner wants to give Munson some more AB's, so he's catching Roy now... and Brad is hangin out at first.

I wonder if Brad sees something in Roy's mechanics, he'll come over from first and have a "conference".

[DaDakota]

Get Oswalt out of there, he has clearly lost it, we don't want this game getting out of hand.

SHEESH !!

;)

[twoniner]

Get Oswalt out of there, he has clearly lost it, we don't want this game getting out of hand.

SHEESH !!

;)


So Roy throws 122 pitches last game for no reason and now will go over 100 pitches with a 9 run lead. Is Dusty Baker our new manager?

[Shaji]

roys pretty obviously pitching to the score now, just trying to get outs and chew up some innings...hes not really coming with his best stuff

[Uprising]

GET OSWALT OUT!!!

SHEESH!

2 run HR!

11-6

[ROXRAN]

GET OSWALT OUT!!!

SHEESH!

2 run HR!

11-6

I thought he was out...what the heckj!

Utilize the bullpen...His ERA WAS looking good...!

[Nick]

Dammit.. I knew Roy would lose his focus once Munson came in.

AH well... hopefully they can keep this in check (ie - don't give up 2 runs) and we won't need to get Wheels or Lidge up.

[adw]

Well those moves backfired bigtime on Garner :(

[NIKEstrad]

Well those moves backfired bigtime on Garner :(

Not really. We have a six run lead now with 2 innings to go. I would hope we don't have any 27 ERA guys on the team.

[Saint Louis]

Biggio is 3-5 with a homer, Mo went yard twice and even Everrett is 2-3. Nice April offense.

[Miguel]

Biggio is 3-5 with a homer, Mo went yard twice and even Everrett is 2-3. Nice April offense.

Mo's on fire. Berkman was hitting everything about 1000 mph, just kept finding someone's glove. Bidge got his groove back. Poindexter is even swinging the bat well. :o

[Nick]

Lead almost completely gone... maybe its really not worth it to save Brad's legs for half a game. This Munson guy is losing the pitchers, and the pitchers are losing control of this game.

[Saint Louis]

Lead almost completely gone... maybe its really not worth it to save Brad's legs for half a game. This Munson guy is losing the pitchers, and the pitchers are losing control of this game.

Well Zeke is on the mound and hasn't exactly been stellar this year. Oswalt is prone to one bad inning too, example last year's World Series.

[adw]

Not really. We have a six run lead now with 2 innings to go. I would hope we don't have any 27 ERA guys on the team.

Yea with Munson behind the plate its totally backfired,I stand by my comment even if we win.

[Saint Louis]

Yea with Munson behind the plate its totally backfired,I stand by my comment even if we win.

What is plan B if Munson doesn't pan out this year?

[Nick]

Well Zeke is on the mound and hasn't exactly been stellar this year. Oswalt is prone to one bad inning too, example last year's World Series.

True... but now if this game becomes close, you're going to depend on this non-catcher to catch Lidge's slider?

Also, I normally expect changes to be made after the 7th inning (or at least when your starter is done)... Garner got greedy and tried to get some extra AB's for Munson... and now its time to play "bite the nails".

[adw]

What is plan B if Munson doesn't pan out this year?

Whats his name down in Round Rock,Hector.

[Nick]

What is plan B if Munson doesn't pan out this year?

Call-up Hector Gimenez? Is Humberto still w/ the organization? I believe he is.

[swilkins]

That ball was smashed. :mad:

[DaDakota]

12-10...this is getting WAY uncomfortable....Lidge needs to heat it up.

Crap, and us with our scrubs in there, this would be a massive collapse.

DD

[The Real Shady]

Jebus! The Brewers have some young and talented hitters. Time to bring in a real relief pitcher.

[mokulen]

Good God! :eek:

[raw10628]

So much for our deep bullpen

[adw]

See it backfired bigtime :mad: ...oh and Miller sucks!

[Major]

True... but now if this game becomes close, you're going to depend on this non-catcher to catch Lidge's slider?


Since when is Munson not a catcher? Do we not plan to run Lidge or anyone else out there on days Wandy pitches? Should we expect Wandy to give up a dozen runs every day? If we have a backup catcher who can't catch and can't hit, then I would hope we'd go and get someone else.

These runs are on the pitchers throwing crappy pitches, not the backup catcher.

[RocketManJosh]

Ugh!! dont do this tonight guys!

[The Real Shady]

Why do the Astros have Miller and Gallo in the bullpen? Just because you can throw lefthanded doesn't make you good.

[DaDakota]

Move Ausmus back behind the plate Munson is not calling that good a game right now.

And Major is correct the pitchers are not exactly doing that great either.

DD

[Nick]

Since when is Munson not a catcher? Do we not plan to run Lidge or anyone else out there on days Wandy pitches? Should we expect Wandy to give up a dozen runs every day? If we have a backup catcher who can't catch and can't hit, then I would hope we'd go and get someone else.

These runs are on the pitchers throwing crappy pitches, not the backup catcher.

Brad has caught Lidge in every appearence... even the days where Munson started (Ausmus came in for the save).

I know the pitchers are making crappy pitches... but its the catcher's job to settle the guys down, put them at ease, and help them re-gain control of this game.

Everything was thrown off once Munson came in...

[Nick]

Move Ausmus back behind the plate Munson is not calling that good a game right now.

And Major is correct the pitchers are not exactly doing that great either.

DD

Ausmus done... no longer at first.

[adw]

I dont care if Phil wants more than one lefty out of the pen,I want Miller gone!

We let him go before we can do it again.

[RocketManJosh]

Ausmus done... no longer at first.

Who is at first then?

[NIKEstrad]

True... but now if this game becomes close, you're going to depend on this non-catcher to catch Lidge's slider?

Also, I normally expect changes to be made after the 7th inning (or at least when your starter is done)... Garner got greedy and tried to get some extra AB's for Munson... and now its time to play "bite the nails".

Do you really think Munson is all the problem here? Wandy has looked just fine when paired with Munson.

Trever Miller has sucked this year regardless, and Astacio has always been home run prone. I'm honestly more concerned about losing Nieve in the bullpen than how he is going to replace Backe in the rotation.

Gimenez is more or less the polar opposite to Munson; he handles pitchers well but has no stick.

PS, Major - Munson is a "non catcher" since pretty much always before this year.

[Nick]

The only bright-side about this game is that if we do lose... Garner will never ever ever manage a game like this again.

He tried to be cute... but with an off-day on Thursday, its not that vital to get guys like Lance, Willy, and Ausmus all the rest possible. Also, the Brewers probably saw that and got a little peeved at the lack of respect.

Now, Lidge is in... this is it... no more moves to screw up now, because there's nobody left.

[Nick]

Do you really think Munson is all the problem here? Wandy has looked just fine when paired with Munson.

Trever Miller has sucked this year regardless, and Astacio has always been home run prone. I'm honestly more concerned about losing Nieve in the bullpen than how he is going to replace Backe in the rotation.

Gimenez is more or less the polar opposite to Munson; he handles pitchers well but has no stick.

I don't think its all Munson... I think all the moves itself were dumb, and putting Munson in was part of the many moves made.

Also, we were putting our catcher at first base... our second-baseman at center field... we're basically telling the Brewers that we own you, and we can do whatever we want out here... they got pissed.

[RocketManJosh]

Wow ... Lidge has pitched the last two nights and he's gonna have a long save tonight. Hopefully he can do the job quickly

[BMoney]

Garner does this way too often and it is bound to bite them in the ass. It's April for Christ's sake!

[rocketfat]

Who is at first then?

Yes. :D

[raw10628]

This might be a big game for Lidge. He gets some extra work in, in the game, and a long save outing should boost his confidence big time. I think he should have a big turn around and revert back to "Lights out Lidge" if he converts here.

[DaDakota]

Ugh,

Now a single ties the game.

DD

[The Real Shady]

Freakin Munson. Looks like a chicken with his head cut off back there.

[Nick]

Munson is scared ****less back there... but Lidge bailed him out big-time.

[Major]

The only bright-side about this game is that if we do lose... Garner will never ever ever manage a game like this again.


I'm not sure this is a good thing. Every manager and every team takes their key players out when up by 8-10 runs in the late innings, as they should. I hope he doesn't change that - it's a great time to get people like Burke and Munson extra at-bats and keep them fresh. Those guys will be critical down the road and need to face live pitching as much as possible.

In my opinion, if you lose a 9 run lead with 3 innings to go, you chalk it up to being a pure fluke and move on and keep doing what you've done in the past.

[The Real Shady]

Sit down biatch. Lights almost out.

[DaDakota]

YES....guts to toss that 96mph heater on the outside corner....LIGHTS out baby !

DD

[Major Malcontent]

Yeah I agree, Garner got waaaay too cute. Hopefully Lidge can keep him from paying too high a price for his mistake.

[Major]

Garner does this way too often and it is bound to bite them in the ass. It's April for Christ's sake!

When is the last time he did this (whatever "this" is) and when is the last time it cost us anything?

[RocketManJosh]

Wow ... Cant believe they got within a single of a tie ... Gotta love baseball

[JaWindex]

Astros with a flair for the dramatic :p

[DaDakota]

In my opinion, if you lose a 9 run lead with 3 innings to go, you chalk it up to being a pure fluke and move on and keep doing what you've done in the past.

So true...but I really want to win this one to get to .500 all time record !!!

And to stay in first place...

:)

DD

[ipaman]

thanks to garner, munson's confidence is plummeting!!!!!! :mad:

[Major]

thanks to garner, munson's confidence is plummeting!!!!!! :mad:

Yup. Much better to show confidence in him by saying "hey, we're up by 9 with 3 innings to go, and we still don't trust you enough to put you in the game."

[Nick]

I'm not sure this is a good thing. Every manager and every team takes their key players out when up by 8-10 runs in the late innings, as they should. I hope he doesn't change that - it's a great time to get people like Burke and Munson extra at-bats and keep them fresh. Those guys will be critical down the road and need to face live pitching as much as possible.

In my opinion, if you lose a 9 run lead with 3 innings to go, you chalk it up to being a pure fluke and move on and keep doing what you've done in the past.

Most teams at least wait till the 7th is done... or they wait till the other teams make the move first.

Also, even though we've roughed up the Brewers here... they're not some no-name team. They have power all throughout the lineup, and their guys are so young, they don't know any better than to not still try to mash when they're down 9 runs.

Also, I didn't come on here spouting this stuff only after the moves were made... I posted AS SOON as the moves occured that it would spell trouble for the Astros, and Lidge would likely be needed... its just a feeling you get when you've seen this type of game before (and I have... many times).

[DaDakota]

You know that brings up an interesting point.

A good catcher who calls a good game can make an average pitcher much better.

Conversely an average catcher who catches pitchers with great stuff, doesn't make that much of a difference because the pitchers stuff is so good.

Does that make sense?

DD

[rikesh316]

trever miller=john franco II

[DaDakota]

trever miller=john franco II
or Dan Miceli

[Nick]

You know that brings up an interesting point.

A good catcher who calls a good game can make an average pitcher much better.

Conversely an average catcher who catches pitchers with great stuff, doesn't make that much of a difference.

Does that make sense?

DD

Makes total sense... which is the reason why Roy still won 20 with Chamo (but his ERA was 3.4, whereas with Ausmus, it was sub 3... in 2001, 2002 and 2005).

Munson is not a fundamentally sound catcher... which makes you worry about his ability to catch Lidge's slider. Other than that, he's serviceable.

[DaDakota]

Come on Adam let's get another insurance run.

YES !!

DD